International Women’s Day: The Strength of Women We Don’t Always See

When I think about International Women’s Day, I don’t immediately think about famous leaders or historical figures.

Instead, I think about the women I have met throughout my life — women who may never receive recognition but have shaped who I am in small and meaningful ways.

When people talk about strong women, they often imagine something dramatic. A powerful speech, a major achievement, or a moment of recognition in front of a crowd.

But over time, I’ve realised that strength does not always look like that.

Some of the strongest women I have met are simply people living their lives with resilience.

They wake up early every day to support their families. They manage work, responsibilities, and relationships while still finding time to care for others. Life is not always easy, but they continue moving forward.

Their strength is not loud.

Sometimes it appears as patience in difficult moments. Sometimes it is the ability to endure challenges quietly. Sometimes it simply looks like kindness in small gestures.

During my travels with World Vision, I met many mothers who carried enormous responsibilities. Their circumstances were not easy, yet they remained deeply committed to providing a better future for their children. Watching them reminded me that resilience is often built in ordinary moments — in the decisions people make every day to keep going.

These women may never appear in newspapers or history books, but their influence is real. Their efforts shape the lives of their families and communities, and their strength leaves a lasting impact on the next generation.

I also think back to the Malaysia Women's Marathon in 2019. My youngest sister and her daughter ran the 5km, while my second sister and I tackled the 21km. It wasn’t about winning or comparing distances — it was about sharing the experience, cheering each other on, and celebrating what each of us could do in our own way.

That day reminded me that strength looks different for everyone. Sometimes it’s running long distances; sometimes it’s simply showing up and taking the first step. Either way, the support we give each other makes all the difference.

International Women’s Day is often associated with messages about empowerment, equality, and progress. Those conversations matter, and the progress made over the years is important.

But for me, the day is also a quiet reminder to notice the everyday strength that surrounds us.

The women who continue showing up, even when life is difficult.

The women who care deeply for others.

The women who quietly hold families and communities together.

Sometimes the most meaningful lessons about strength don’t come from famous stories. They come from the women we meet every day — my sisters, my nieces, the mothers I’ve met, the friends I lean on. And it’s their courage, quiet resilience, and care that shapes the way I move through the world.

May xx

Running the Cardiff Half 2026 for Tenovus Cancer Care

There’s a race I’ve been thinking about for years. Funny enough, I never even knew much about Cardiff until I started dating this guy from Wales.

Image from: Cardiff Half Marathon

A long time ago, I signed up for the Cardiff Half Marathon. Back then, it was simple, no ballot, just sign up and go. I was meant to run it… But work got in the way. I had to give up my place and sell the ticket. I remember feeling disappointed, but I told myself it was fine. Life happens.

Still, Cardiff stayed somewhere in the back of my mind.

Last year, I found out that the Cardiff Half is actually part of the SuperHalfs series. Suddenly, that race I once missed didn’t feel so small anymore. It felt unfinished — the kind of goal that quietly waits until you’re ready to come back to it.

When the ballot opened, I entered without thinking too much. — I didn’t get in.

Image from: Cardiff Half Marathon

I was disappointed, yes — but more than that, I realised how badly I wanted it. Not out of ego, not to prove anything, but because some goals matter simply because you never really walked away from them.

I spoke to my boyfriend about it. We talked about running for a charity instead — about doing this race for more than just a medal.

Together, we chose Tenovus Cancer Care.

Cancer has a way of touching lives quietly and deeply. Tenovus supports people through moments most of us hope we never have to face — offering care, guidance, and compassion when it’s needed most.

And so here I am.

I’ve now signed up to run the 2026 Cardiff Half Marathon as part of Team Tenovus Cancer Care. This time, I’m not just running for myself.

Running has always been where I go when my head feels full, and life feels heavy. It’s not always about pace or distance — sometimes it’s just about showing up and putting one foot in front of the other.

This race feels like that.

• A second chance.
• A quiet promise to myself.
• And an opportunity to turn something I love into something that helps others.

Fundraising can feel awkward to talk about, but I also know how powerful small acts of kindness can be.

If you’re able to support, I’d be incredibly grateful. If not, sharing the page or sending an encouraging message already means a lot.

You can support my run here:

👉 https://cardiffhalf26.enthuse.com/pf/may-ling-tan

Every donation helps Tenovus Cancer Care continue supporting people and families when they need it most.

This October, when I’m running through Cardiff, I’ll be carrying more than tired legs. I’ll be carrying unfinished business, quiet determination, and the support of people who believe in this journey.

Thank you for being part of it — in whatever way you can.

May x

Putting Some Dates on the Calendar

I didn’t announce anything.

No dramatic goals.

No “this is my year” declaration.

After sharing how my running journey started and where I am now, this felt like the right next step. Nothing loud. Nothing flashy. Just giving my running a bit of direction again.

AI-generated image 

All three runs on the calendar are ballot races. I know how lucky I am to even get a spot, so I’m genuinely grateful. No expectations, no entitlement. I'm just thankful for the chance to stand on those starting lines.

Putting these dates down isn’t about making big promises. It’s about giving myself direction without pressure. Training steadily. Respecting my body. Allowing recovery. Accepting that some weeks will be better than others.

There may be a few more races along the way if one becomes available and timing allows. No fixed plans. Just joining when it feels right.

For now, it’s simply about showing up and seeing where the road takes me.

May x

Moving, Even When It’s Hard

After being knocked out sick for the past few days, I had absolutely zero energy to do anything. Even lifting a finger felt heavy. I’ve been sluggish, just lying around binge-watching Netflix. Yesterday, I still had an excuse because of all the rain, but today… Well, I watched five episodes of a K-drama, downed three cups of coffee, and ate the leftover food from the fridge.

I felt like I was melting into the couch while my mind was itching to restart my fitness journey.

It’s a strange feeling. In my head, I wanted to do so many things, but my body simply wouldn’t cooperate.

Still, I guess my stubborn mind won out today. It’s a small victory, but it matters.

My body had no energy, honestly — I was half-hoping the rain wouldn’t stop so I’d have a reason to stay put. But when the rain cleared, I told myself: just walk out the door. There's no need to push. Just try. My chest still feels hollow from this cough, so I didn’t aim for anything big. I started with a 1 km walk, then ran 3 km. By the end of that third kilometre, I felt like I was about to pass out, so I cooled down with another 1 km walk.

It was getting dark anyway. It was muddy and there were dogs around, so I headed home and did a few easy dumbbell reps. Nothing fancy, nothing intense — just doing my best.

And you know what? I’m happy I got out there. The beach was lovely. The breeze helped. I’m learning to listen to my body and simply do what I can. Trying, little by little, to feel a bit more like myself again.

Anyway, that’s my little update today. Anyone else out there pushing through the blah days? Drop me a comment or DM — I’m curious how you deal with days when your body and mind aren’t quite in sync.

May x

Finding My Way Back

I won’t sugarcoat this. I’ve been slacking on my workouts, and now my body’s paying the price.

I noticed it after last week’s run. Actually, no—I lied. It’s been a while. This didn’t happen suddenly. It crept up slowly, skipping a workout here, cutting a run short there, convincing myself that a walk or an occasional PT session would balance it all out. I thought I was doing “enough” to maintain things, but the truth is, I wasn’t paying attention.

And then the signs started showing. My clothes, the ones that used to make me feel good, stopped fitting the way they used to. I noticed it first when I pulled on an old dress, and it felt tighter than I remembered, with my belly hanging out. Then came the feeling when I was running, the uncomfortable bounce and that little voice in my head asking, "How did I get here?"

It’s tough to admit, but I let it slide. I’m the one who got myself into this situation.

But here’s the thing: I don’t want to stay stuck. I’m not chasing perfection or some unrealistic ideal. I just want to feel like me again — the version of myself who moves with energy, feels strong, and is comfortable in her own skin. I'm 44 this year.

So now, I’m trying to find my way back.. one run at a time, one small choice at a time. It’s not glamorous, it’s not instant, and honestly, it’s humbling. But it’s necessary.

If you’ve ever felt this way, too, lost your rhythm, lost motivation, or felt like you’ve drifted... how did you get yourself back? What helped you regain your momentum? I’d love to hear your thoughts, tips, or even just your story.

Progress is progress, no matter how small the step.

May x

The Joy of Giving Something Handmade

Little pieces of love, ready to travel across the miles. #Handmade bookmarks and birthday cards for my sponsored children. 💛

This year, I’m sending my sponsored children handmade bookmarks along with birthday cards. They may be small, but each one is made with a lot of love and thought.

With birthdays spread out throughout the year, I make time to prepare these little gifts because they’re my way of showing how much I care. Even though the gifts are simple, I hope they bring a smile and let them know they are thought of, remembered, and celebrated.

Making these bookmarks has become a special part of my routine. It’s not something rushed or done out of obligation. It’s something I genuinely look forward to. Sitting down with some quiet time, choosing the colours, thinking about each child as I craft their bookmark, these small moments fill me with a sense of connection, even across the distance.

Each time I put a card and bookmark together, I’m reminded of how precious they are and how grateful I am to be part of their lives, even in this small way. Being able to support and encourage them, even from afar, is something I never take for granted.

It may not be anything grand or expensive, but it’s meaningful, not just to them, I hope, but also to me. These little gifts are my way of sending love, encouragement, and a small reminder that someone out there is cheering them on.

If you’ve ever thought about creating something handmade for someone you care about, I really encourage you to give it a try. Sometimes the simplest gestures can mean more than we realise.

Thanks for reading. If you have any simple gift ideas you love to share with others, I’d love to hear them too.

May x

Child Sponsorship is not just about giving - it's about Friendship

I’m so happy to share that my story about child sponsorship was recently featured on the World Vision Singapore website.

When I first started my child sponsorship journey, I wanted to do more than just provide financial support. I wanted to create a real connection. As someone who enjoys handicrafts, I decided to send something handmade, something special, and something made with love. So, I made friendship bands—one for each of my sponsored children and sent them along with my first letter to symbolise the beginning of our friendship and the bond we share.

Months passed, and then came the annual update with their latest photos. As I looked through them, I was overwhelmed with emotion. One of my sponsored children was wearing the band. They all were.

It’s hard to describe how that felt. It was just a simple band, but it meant so much to them. They wore it. They kept it. They treasured it. And at that moment, I realised that even the smallest gestures can carry so much meaning.

Our letters are limited, often delayed by time and translation, but I still try to make our bond special. For their birthdays, I design and print personalised cards… not handwritten, but still made with love, just for them. It’s not about showing the world what I do. It’s about showing them that they matter. That they are thought of. That somewhere, far away, someone cares about them.

Sponsorship, to me, is not just about giving—it’s about friendship. It’s about forming a real friendship. It’s about reminding these children that they are important, loved, and never forgotten. It’s about making them feel that someone, somewhere, cares about them.

Because sometimes, even a small act of kindness can have a bigger impact than we realise. ❤️

Read more about the impact of child sponsorship on Child Sponsorship Stories.

Sambour: A Journey Close to My Heart — Part 2

The day of the trip finally arrived! I flew directly from Bangkok, arriving in Phnom Penh a day earlier. That extra day gave me time to enjoy some local meals, explore a little, and, of course, do some last-minute shopping for my sponsored children. No matter how much I plan, there's always something more I feel like getting! 😆 Thankfully, SC was there to accompany me, so I didn't have to explore alone.

With all the extra shopping, I'm thankful to SC because some of it went into her luggage, some into my small suitcase, and we managed to shift things around. Problem solved!

In the morning, we met up with the rest of the trippers at the airport as they arrived from Singapore. Seeing familiar faces from past trips and meeting new ones was such a great feeling. There's something special about being surrounded by people who share the same passion for making a difference.

Cheers to the great company, meaningful moments, and the journey ahead!

After everyone settled in, got SIM cards, and exchanged money, we hit the road in a comfortable van, heading from Phnom Penh to Sambour. If there's one thing I've learned from trips like these, it's that getting to the AP isn't a quick journey. It took about six hours, with stopovers for toilet breaks, lunch, and, of course, the very last minute of buying gifts. The road conditions were so much better than last time—no more back-breaking, bumpy rides! That alone felt like a win. Although the drive was long, I didn't mind at all. It gave me time to reflect on my last visit and everything I was looking forward to. Would the girls recognise me? How much had they grown? 

After checking in at the hotel, we gathered for a trip briefing led by Piseth. I have so much respect for him—his dedication to the community is truly inspiring. His team has done an incredible job over the years, and hearing about their ongoing work made me even more excited for the days ahead. He walked us through what to expect, such as the living conditions, challenges, and, most importantly, the achievements made possible through sponsorship and community support.

Gaining insights into the journey ahead. His passion and dedication are contagious.

We wrapped up the day with dinner, resting up for what was to come. We will be heading deep into the villages tomorrow—and I couldn't wait.

This place wasn't just a name on a map anymore. It was a community I cared deeply about, a place that now felt like a second home.

Stay tuned because the real adventure is just about to begin. 🫰🏻

May x

You Are Stronger Than You Think

Image created with Microsoft Designer

International Women’s Day always makes me pause and reflect. It’s a day to celebrate women everywhere—the ones who lead, the ones who nurture, the ones who fight for change, and the ones who quietly keep going, even when no one is watching.

I think about the strength women carry every day. The resilience in showing up, the courage in making tough choices, and the kindness that often goes unnoticed. Some of us grew up with strong female figures guiding the way, while others had to find their own path. For me, I’ve seen this strength in many ways—through the women I work with, the communities I’ve visited, and the young girls I sponsor, who are striving for a better future despite the challenges they face. No matter our journey, we learn, we adapt, and we keep pushing forward.

To the women juggling a hundred things at once. To those carving out space in boardrooms, classrooms, and communities. To the ones chasing dreams, running marathons (literal or not), and showing up for others even when their own plates are full—this is for you.

You are stronger than you think. And if today is a tough day, I hope you still find a moment to breathe, to be proud of how far you’ve come, and to know that you are seen.

Let’s lift each other up—share a story of strength, celebrate the women who inspire you, or simply remind someone how much they are appreciated.

Happy International Women’s Day. 💜

May x

I’ve Been Chosen, Again!

Exactly one year ago, I had the privilege of taking part in my first Chosen experience, and it’s been a journey I’ll never forget. Today, I’m incredibly honoured to be chosen by M, my fourth sponsored child through World Vision’s Chosen programme. This connection means so much to me, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside her on this journey.

Why did I choose to be Chosen?

Chosen is such a beautiful and empowering programme. It gives children the incredible power to make a choice—the choice of who will stand by them and support them. Instead of waiting to be chosen, they are in control of their futures, allowing them to decide who will walk with them. This small but powerful act gives them dignity and confidence in a world where they often feel powerless.

What makes this moment even more special is the story behind it. After visiting Mongolia and seeing life in Selenge firsthand, I became aware of the difficulties faced by children in different parts of the country. I heard about M’s Area Programme and the challenges she faces, and I felt an undeniable pull to act. When M selected me, it felt like fate—like it was meant to be.

To top it all off, M and I share the same initial and birthday month, which adds an even more meaningful layer to our connection. Sometimes, it’s the small details that remind us how everything is so perfectly aligned.

M, I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be part of your journey. It’s an honour to walk alongside you and support you in whatever way I can. I’m looking forward to seeing how our paths develop together.

To all who are reading this, have you ever imagined what it would feel like to be chosen by a child? It’s an incredibly meaningful experience that can truly change lives. If you haven’t had that chance yet, maybe it’s time to see if a child chooses you.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Chosen programme or how you can get involved, I encourage you to check out World Vision’s website. It’s a wonderful way to create a lasting impact on a child’s life.

May x

A Journey of Impact: Meeting My Sponsored Child in Mongolia

It's been a week since I returned from Mongolia, but the memories remain fresh in my mind. This was my third trip with World Vision Singapore, yet each experience feels new in its own way. Visiting the communities, meeting the people, and witnessing the impact of sponsorship firsthand reinforced why I continue to be part of this journey.

Mongolia is a land of vast open spaces, rolling steppes, and a deep-rooted nomadic culture. The weather was just great—probably because I've gotten used to the cold seasons—but there were moments when the sun warmed our faces, and in the next, strong winds sent chills down our spines. But what truly stood out was the resilience and hospitality of the people we met.

The trip to Selenge was unforgettable, made even more meaningful by the warmth, friendliness, and incredible talents of the people I met along the way. I travelled with 21 other trippers, and we began our adventure with a nearly 13-hour flight to Ulaanbaatar. After a day of exploring the city, shopping, and enjoying dinner together, we hit the road the next day, embarking on a six-hour journey to a remote town. The scenery was breathtaking—endless stretches of green and distant mountains that looked like something out of a painting. It was so peaceful and beautiful that it was hard to find words to capture its true essence.

Captured this along the way on our bus journey. I'm not sure exactly where I am, but the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

I have to be honest; no camera can truly capture the view the way your eyes do. 

We met with the local governor and attended a graduation ceremony for a community development program, which equips people with skills, resources, and training to become self-sufficient. Seeing their achievements was truly inspiring. Later, we visited a local school, where students showcased their talents with a lively judo performance—an impressive display of energy and skill.

These young faces in traditional Mongolian attire made our arrival unforgettable. 

Met these amazing young judo athletes during my trip. Their dedication and passion for the sport is truly inspiring. 

Day 3 was particularly eventful. We toured a school dormitory and learned about an innovative water sanitation and hygiene programme. During the visit, we were introduced to a traditional Mongolian game called shagai, which is played with ankle bones (sheep or goat ankle bone). It's more than just a game; it's a cultural tradition passed down through generations. 

The talent and spirit of these students are truly something special. 

Visited the new WASH programme facility today. I’m so glad the children now have a better place to use. The old facility had them walking out from the dormitory, which was a real challenge during the cold winter months. It’s heartwarming to see the positive change. 

The ankle bone game, or shagai, a traditional Mongolian game.

In the afternoon, we visited herder families supported by World Vision, gaining insights into their way of life. I even had the chance to try horse riding and scooping cow dung (yes, really!). Being inside a traditional ger was an eye-opener, making me wonder how they endure the harsh winters.

Getting a firsthand look at the daily life of a herder’s family

The view and the traditional ger feel like a scene from a painting.

Unfortunately, the day took an unexpected turn when I sprained my ankle in a fall. The pain was intense, and I feared it might be broken. The nearest hospital was two hours away, and even then, there was no doctor—only nurses. After an X-ray, we had to search for a pharmacy to get the necessary medication. The situation was overwhelming, but I was incredibly grateful to Claire and the World Vision Mongolia team, who stayed by my side, ensuring I was comfortable and supported. Their kindness made all the difference during such a challenging moment.

On Day 4, despite my injury, I didn't want to miss out on any part of the trip. We visited the local World Vision office for a briefing and then went to a library to meet savings group members. The success stories shared were uplifting—these groups empower individuals to take control of their finances and build supportive communities. Some even use their savings to assist members in times of need, reinforcing resilience and solidarity.

Later, we attended another graduation ceremony for beneficiaries who had completed a livelihood training programme. One of the stories that stood out was of Bumaa, who participated in a life skills training course in sewing and now runs her own business. Her words, "Give a man a fish, and he'll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he'll eat for a lifetime," resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the lasting power of education and empowerment.

Bumaa's amazing story

We also had the chance to visit some of the most vulnerable families, witnessing the immense challenges many face. Many are grappling with generational poverty, alcohol addiction, and limited access to resources. We visited one family whose middle son was in the hospital for appendicitis, and the eldest son shared their story with us. The condition of their ger, which had been damaged by the mother's outbursts, was heartbreaking. There was little support available to address deeper issues like rehabilitation services, which could truly make a difference in such situations.

One of the MVF houses — not in the best condition

Before we left, we took a detour to the Russian border for a cheeky little adventure just before calling it a day.

The border

Day 5 started with a visit to a familiar place—the hospital where I had been treated for my ankle. It looked completely different from my last visit! This time, we were there to hear students share how they had benefited from the Health Education Programme, which empowers the younger generation with crucial knowledge.

Then, we also visited a school to learn about their Child Development Club, which includes sports, arts, and life skills training. What stood out to me was their inclusion of children with special needs. I had the opportunity to sit with an older student who taught me how to make handicrafts, a way of developing motor skills. It was a heartwarming experience, and I truly enjoyed my time with him.

In the afternoon, we split into two groups for volunteer activities with local CSO members. I joined the painting team, while others took on the challenging task of building a ger for a vulnerable family. Once we finished, we went to check on the progress of the ger and witnessed its handover ceremony. One of our fellow trippers even sponsored the boy who would be living in the new ger—a touching moment that highlighted the lasting impact of this trip.

Day 6 was the highlight of the trip, which was meeting my sponsored child. I had been looking forward to this moment for so long, and it exceeded all my expectations. She spotted me first during an icebreaker game and came straight to my side. My heart was filled with joy. We spent hours playing games, singing, and dancing, and with Uuree as my translator, I learned more about her life and family. Her determination and competitive spirit reminded me so much of myself. Saying goodbye was tough, but I will always treasure the gift and letter she gave me—a truly touching moment.

After our emotional farewell, we visited Saikhanii Khutul National Park near the Russian border. Despite my sore ankle and fear of heights, I couldn't resist taking in the breathtaking views. The hike was tough but absolutely worth it.

That evening, we gathered for a farewell at the hotel, saying our goodbyes—not just to fellow trippers setting off on their own journeys but also to the incredible World Vision staff who made this experience possible.

Looking back, I feel so incredibly grateful. Meeting my sponsored child and seeing the impact of World Vision’s work firsthand was deeply moving. It’s one thing to hear about these efforts but another to stand in the very places where change is happening. The resilience, warmth, and strength of the people I met left a lasting mark on me.

Before leaving, I made a decision that felt right in my heart. A new Area Programme was being established in Dornod, Mongolia, and World Vision Singapore organised a Chosen programme. After witnessing the challenges families face, I knew I wanted to be part of the journey ahead. Since it was also the last day for registration, I signed up before I left. Because even the smallest steps can make a difference, and this trip was a powerful reminder that we all have the ability to create meaningful change.

If you’re interested in making a lasting impact and changing the life of a child, consider sponsoring today. Visit the World Vision website to learn more and join this meaningful journey.

May x

Overcoming fitness setbacks and getting back on track

Sometimes life throws us curveballs😭. For me, this happened in June, a week after the big event. I fell ill and struggled to recover, especially with all the travelling. This made it hard to get back to my fitness routine. Even simple tasks like walking up the stairs felt challenging. Hence, missing the Gold Coast Marathon wasn't that bad.

Image created with Microsoft Designer 

So, after about 6 weeks off, returning to my fitness routine was more challenging than I expected. I didn’t feel motivated to start running or doing intense workouts. The most I could manage was walking.

Restarting a fitness routine after a break was difficult, but I’ve learned that patience and consistency are crucial. It’s important to listen to my body and set realistic goals. Small steps, like daily walks, gradually build my stamina and confidence 🙄.

Taking things slow and combining it with my reading routine has made getting back into fitness slightly easier. If you face a similar setback, remember that progress doesn’t always mean pushing hard; sometimes, it’s about making steady, manageable steps.

May x

How a New Habit Improved My Quality of Life

Finding habits that genuinely improve our quality of life can be challenging, especially with the busy responsibilities of daily working life. One habit that I have found to make a significant difference is reading.

Image created with Microsoft Designer

Over the past few months, my life has been hectic. Despite my best intentions, carving out time for reading often felt like a luxury I could not afford. However, I have discovered that even brief moments spent with a good book can offer substantial benefits.

I have always had an interest in non-fiction, romantic comedies, and mysteries. Recently, I have broadened my reading interests to include science fiction, fantasy, and philosophical fiction. Each genre offers a unique perspective and provides a refreshing break from my daily routine.

Undeniably, I have faced challenges with this new habit. Finding time to read consistently has been difficult, and I have struggled with patience when a book does not immediately captivate me. I have had a few books that ended up as "DNF," as I sometimes find it hard to push through if the book is not engaging.

However, I have learned that flexibility is key to making reading a regular habit. Even if I cannot read every day, I make an effort to pick up a book whenever I can. Whether it is a few pages before bed or during a short break, these small moments of reading contribute to a greater sense of relaxation and mental improvement.

Incorporating reading into my routine, even sporadically, has enhanced my quality of life. It offers a mental escape, fosters creativity, and provides a chance to unwind from the daily grind. I hope to continue making reading a more regular part of my day and encourage others to explore this habit as well. Sometimes, small changes can lead to the most significant improvements in our lives.

May x

Travel Hiccups: Lessons Learned from a Disappointing Experience

I was really looking forward to running the Gold Coast Marathon, but unfortunately, my excitement turned to disappointment due to a series of unforeseen issues.

Photo by: May

I applied for an ETA to enter Australia, expecting the same swift approval I had experienced in the past. However, this time, the process took 4 days instead of the usual seconds. My application wasn’t rejected, but I received an email stating that it could not be finalised at that time. I was instructed to submit additional information through ImmiAccount, including a copy of my passport biodata page and evidence demonstrating my intention of a temporary visit. 

Also, it requires proof of employment in my home country, a bank statement showing sufficient funds to support myself during my stay, and details about my family background. It was a horrendous experience. I was forced to cancel my trip because the ETA was approved just a day after my scheduled flight. This delay had a domino effect, leading to the cancellation of both my flights and hotel bookings.

In an attempt to make the best of a bad situation, I contacted the marathon organisers to ask if they could courier my running bib to me. I knew I wouldn’t be able to collect it in person or sell it, so I was willing to pay for the service. Unfortunately, my request was turned down. This left me not only disappointed but also out of pocket for a significant amount of money.

Looking back, I realise the importance of applying for travel documents well in advance. The lesson is clear: don’t wait until the last minute, especially when it comes to something as important as an international marathon.

To make matters worse, I fell ill after attending the trade show in Singapore. I suspect it might have been COVID-19. On the bright side, missing the marathon meant I could recover without the added stress of travel and racing.

Though I’m still unhappy about the whole experience, I’m trying to focus on the positives. Sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges our way, and all we can do is learn from them and move forward.

May x

My Recent Work Adventures

My last post was about the Paris Marathon. Since then, I’ve been travelling a lot for work and also taking some time off for a holiday.

Photo by: May

About a year ago, I started working with a company I had previously worked with. They reached out to me for a short 3-month project, but the scope expanded, and so did my contract. Even though marketing isn’t my strongest area—despite having a master’s degree in it—I’ve been handling it as best as I can.

I was particularly busy preparing for a major event in Singapore in June. It was my first time managing such a large event with a 54 sqm booth, thousands of visitors, and hundreds of exhibitors. I wanted to make sure the company was well-represented and not embarrassed.

I’m proud of how I managed much of the work independently, with guidance from the client’s corporate MarComms team to ensure we followed their branding. Being able to make decisions on my own has been a great advantage and has helped me work more efficiently.

Additionally, I’m pleased that the company offered me a permanent position as my contract is coming to an end. Although I had to turn it down because it’s not the path I want to pursue, I’m glad my work was valued. I hope that once the new person joins, I’ll have some time to reflect and learn from this experience.

I’m looking forward to sharing more updates and hope that after my contract ends, I’ll be inspired to get back to blogging regularly after having taken a break since my last update.

May x

My Experience at the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris 2024

 Why did I decide to sign up? Well, it was something on my bucket list.

Photo by: May

The Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris on 7th April 2024 marked a significant milestone for me—a check off my bucket list. Initially invited by my partner's brother, who unfortunately backed out, I decided to go ahead with this journey alone. My partner decided to go to the Hong Kong Sevens 😒. Despite being a bit of a lone ranger, it was a fulfilling experience and a satisfying achievement.

Photo by: May

Arriving in Paris 3 days before the event was a smart move, allowing me to combat jetlag and acclimate to the local weather, even if it meant spending a bit more on accommodation. Picking up my race bib at Porte de Versailles on Friday was smooth, although the language barrier made things a bit tricky. Nevertheless, I enjoyed exploring the expo, or "The Run Experience Fair," which was well-organised and engaging.

The flag-off for this race felt a bit strange to me. We were all given colour coding, and I expected the flag-off time to be as stated. I arrived an hour early to check things out and found myself in the pen 10 minutes before the scheduled start. Little did I know, I waited 40 minutes before we began. And during that time, I had already loaded up on a pack of gel... 🙄🙄🙄

Anyway, I'm incredibly grateful to have made it to the finish line. My finished time was 5:07:46. There was a moment when I doubted I could. Mentally, I hit a wall around 23km, but thanks to the encouragement from my sisters, I found the strength to push through. The weather was okay, with a light drizzle towards the end, and running past Paris landmarks was truly enjoyable.

Source: https://www.schneiderelectricparismarathon.com/en/information/route-and-profiles

The spectators' enthusiasm brought some challenges. The route wasn't fully barricaded, resulting in encounters with pedestrians, children, and even cyclists crossing the path. Despite these obstacles, the energy of the crowds, with cheering sections and musical bands, was uplifting.

Photo by: Marathon-Photos.com

Running on cobblestones proved to be physically demanding, and the elevation added another level of difficulty. By the time I reached 36km, my legs were protesting. Luckily, they did not completely give up, and I started walking.

At 40km, I started picking up speed until I crossed the finish line. The congestion of people around the timing mat made the final moments a bit chaotic.

Nevertheless, completing this race was a bucket list achievement for me. I want to extend my thank you to the organisers and all the volunteers for their efforts and dedication in making this event possible.

Done and dusted.

May x

Reflecting on 2023 and Embracing Transformation in 2024

 

Photo by: May

I know this post is late, but I will share my reflections anyway. 😊

As I sit down to contemplate the year that has just bid us farewell, my heart overflows with gratitude for the rich tapestry of experiences that shaped my 2023. The highs and lows, unexpected twists, and moments of sheer joy have etched an indelible mark on my heart.

In 2023, my heart found fulfilment in sponsoring more children and visiting them in different corners of the world. Witnessing the impact of these simple acts of kindness was humbling and profoundly rewarding. However, the year also presented challenges. Battling through my first encounter with COVID-19 reminded me of the fragility of health.

As the calendar flips to 2024, a renewed sense of purpose propels me forward. Learning from the past, I am determined to live healthier, reignite my passion for marathon running, and strive towards a lofty goal – completing an Ironman before I turn 50, a challenge I eagerly embrace at the age of 43.

My focus for 2024 extends beyond personal milestones. I aspire to inspire those around me to adopt healthier lifestyles. I hope to create a community dedicated to fitness and well-being through training updates, motivational stories, and encouraging words.

In the spirit of giving, I plan to initiate a fundraising effort. While the cause remains undecided, the goal is clear—making a positive impact. Additionally, visits to my sponsor child in various locations will continue, fostering the connections forged in 2023.

Looking ahead, the dream of completing all 6 major marathons takes shape. The plan is to achieve this milestone before reaching the age of 50. As the journey unfolds, it becomes not just a pursuit of medals but a celebration of resilience, perseverance, and the joy found in every step.

Join me on this expedition of self-discovery, resilience, and pursuing a healthier, more fulfilling life. Let's make 2024 a year of positive transformation—one step at a time.

May x

My Walk and Embracing the Heat

 

Photo by: May

I want to share my recent journey walking back home from the BTS station in the busy city of Bangkok. Living here means dealing with a mix of sweltering heat and rain, but rain or shine, I stick to my routine of walking home.

Bangkok has this unique way of making you feel like you're walking on the sun's surface! The sun was blazing high this week, casting its heat all around. A 1.6 km walk might be easy, but it's definitely a challenge with this intense heat.

As I walked along my usual route, I noticed my own shadow tagging along. Capturing that fleeting shadow in bright sunlight is usually a challenge, but today was different. I found the perfect shot – my shadow walking beside me on the hot pavement. The sun was intense, creating a beautiful play of brightness and shadow. I couldn't resist capturing the moment, even though there were probably many people on the street staring at me.

Living in Bangkok has its challenges, and the weather is one of them. I've learned to embrace it all.

It's funny how the simplest things can turn into a bit of an adventure – unexpected moments, simple joys, and the shadows that accompany us on our everyday journeys. The next time you find yourself walking under the scorching sun, take a moment to look down and appreciate the beauty in your own shadow. You might just discover something amazing right at your feet.

Until next time, keep walking and keep discovering!

May x